Bexhill school’s letter of apology over investigation

A special needs school has apologised to parents after it failed to notify them of an investigation into three staff members.

Although the staff concerned were cleared of any wrongdoing, St Mary’s Special School in Wrestwood Road, Bexhill, wrote to all parents informing them of the oversight just before the half-term holidays.

In the letter, which was sent to the Observer this week, Amanda Clugston, the school’s consultant principal, said: “During my conversations with parents it has become apparent the school did not tell you about an allegation made against three staff and that this may be causing you anxiety. I understand this as I know that youu need to be able to trust us to look after your child when they are with us. The school takes all such incidents extremely seriously and our safeguarding practices are of the utmost importance to us and under constant review to ensure we provide a safe school in which to live and learn.”

She said ‘measures were taken immediately’ following the allegation and the school had co-operated fully with a police investigation.

The investigation has now been completed, no charges have been brought and no warnings issued against any of the staff.

Ms Clugston said in her letter details of the allegation ‘remain confidential’.

St Mary’s was placed in special measures in January this year, following a damning Ofsted report. The inspection found inadequacy in six categories, which included leadership and management.

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